Ford Bronco vs Toyota Highlander Hybrid

The 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid was available starting at $41,995, including the destination charge, for the base LE trim with front-wheel drive. Buyers could upgrade to higher trims like XLE, Bronze Edition, Limited, and Platinum, with all-wheel drive as an optional feature. The test vehicle was a top-tier Platinum trim with AWD, priced at $54,718. Changes for 2023 were minimal, with a new Cypress Green paint and standard power-folding mirrors for Limited and Platinum trims. The Highlander Hybrid's design was criticized for being overly styled, with exaggerated features and a lack of subtlety both inside and out. The interior, though spacious, was marred by mismatched textures and a lack of quality feel, with controls and storage areas feeling cheap. Despite these drawbacks, the Highlander Hybrid was noted for its quiet ride, especially on rough pavement, thanks to acoustic front window glass in higher trims.

The 2024 Ford Bronco embraced a retro design reminiscent of the 1960s, particularly successful in the two-door model. The Sasquatch Package, a popular upgrade, added a suspension lift and 35-inch tires, enhancing its rugged appearance. The Bronco offered nine trim levels, with prices ranging from $41,525 to $71,580, and the Raptor model at $91,930. The test vehicle was a four-door Big Bend trim with the Sasquatch Package, priced at $55,415. The Bronco's interior was functional, with marine-grade upholstery that was durable but not breathable. The dashboard featured an 8-inch digital display and a 12-inch touchscreen, with practical knobs and buttons for controls. Compared to its rival, the Jeep Wrangler, the Bronco's interior was more refined, offering good visibility and a unique driving experience. Despite some drawbacks, the Bronco was praised for its fun and distinctive character.

The 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid combined a 2.5-liter Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder engine with two electric motor-generators, producing 243 horsepower. The AWD version added a third electric motor for the rear wheels. The Highlander Hybrid was designed for efficiency, with a Predictive Efficient Drive system to optimize fuel economy, though it fell short of its EPA rating, achieving 28.7 mpg instead of the expected 35 mpg. The driving experience was described as uninspiring, with soft suspension and a CVT that lacked engagement. The Highlander Hybrid was best suited for city and suburban driving, offering a smooth and quiet ride but lacking excitement.

The 2024 Ford Bronco Big Bend came with a standard 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine producing 300 horsepower and 325 lb-ft of torque, with a 10-speed automatic transmission. An optional 2.7-liter V6 offered 330 horsepower, while the Raptor model boasted 418 horsepower. The Bronco's part-time 4WD system and various off-road technologies made it capable on trails. However, its fuel efficiency was low, with the Sasquatch Package reducing highway mpg. The Bronco excelled off-road, handling trails with ease, but its on-road performance was less refined, with noticeable wind and tire noise. Despite this, the Bronco was enjoyable to drive, offering a unique and adventurous experience.

The 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid was designed to accommodate family needs, seating seven or eight people depending on the configuration. Most models featured second-row captain's chairs, making the third row suitable only for occasional use. The interior offered three-zone climate control and power-adjustable front seats, though the third row was cramped and uncomfortable. Storage solutions were practical but not well-executed, with unlined areas and a complex center console design. Cargo space was adequate, with 16 cubic feet behind the third row and up to 84.3 cubic feet with seats folded.

The 2024 Ford Bronco, especially in the four-door configuration, provided ample space for passengers, with no rollbar obstructing rear-seat passengers. The marine-grade vinyl upholstery was durable but trapped moisture. The Bronco offered removable roof panels and doors for an open-air experience, with various storage solutions including MOLLE panels. Cargo space in the two-door model was 22.4 cubic feet, expanding to 53.3 cubic feet with seats down. The four-door model offered more space, with 38.3 cubic feet and 83 cubic feet with seats up and down, respectively.

The 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid featured updated technology, with a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation display and a new Toyota Audio Multimedia system. The infotainment system offered over-the-air updates, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and various connected services. The Drive Connect plan enhanced functionality with voice recognition and cloud-based navigation. The JBL sound system provided decent audio quality, though the graphics on the infotainment screen could be improved for better visibility.

The 2024 Ford Bronco came standard with a 12-inch touchscreen Sync 4 infotainment system, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM 360L, and a seven-speaker stereo. Higher trims included a connected navigation system and a Bang & Olufsen sound system. The Bronco's technology had some connectivity issues, with inconsistent Apple CarPlay performance and voice recognition. The Bronco Trail App offered trail maps and information, accessible through the Sync 4 display.

The 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid was equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, offering a comprehensive suite of ADAS features including adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were standard on hybrids, with additional features on higher trims. The Highlander Hybrid received excellent crash-test ratings from IIHS and NHTSA, though some ADAS features struggled in certain conditions.

The 2024 Ford Bronco Big Bend included standard safety features like forward-collision warning and automatic emergency braking. The Mid Package added Ford Co-Pilot360 technologies, enhancing safety with lane-departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and rear parking sensors. The Bronco received favorable crash-test ratings from IIHS, though its headlight performance was rated marginal. NHTSA ratings were incomplete, with a four-star frontal-impact rating and a three-star rollover resistance rating.